Bed Bug Myths
When you think you’re finding signs of bed bugs, it’s important to have all the facts. The more knowledge you have about how to treat bed bugs, the better. Reviewing these common myths can get you started in the right direction.
Myth 1 – We Can’t See Bed Bugs
Wondering how to know if you have bed bugs? It might be easier than you think. One of the most common myths about bed bugs is that we can’t see them without a microscope. This simply isn’t true. Adult bed bugs are about the size of an apple seed. If you need to get rid of bed bugs, you’ll probably see them first. Every stage of the bed bug life cycle can be visible to the naked eye. That includes eggs and nymphs—not just the adult bed bugs. These pests can be upsetting to see, but it’s not the end of line. Once you spot bed bugs, you can start taking effective action to get rid of them.Myth 2 – Bed Bugs Carry Diseases
While bed bugs can be a source of emotional distress and their bites can itch, they don’t actually transmit any diseases to humans. Yet bed bugs are still considered a public health pest. They travel easily and reproduce rapidly, so it’s important to get professional treatment as soon as you find them.Myth 3 – Bed Bugs Won’t Infest Clean Homes
Another misconception is that bed bugs only live in dirty or cluttered spaces. The fact is, bed bugs will live just about anywhere they can find humans to feed on.
Bed bugs usually enter our homes by hitching a ride. This can happen to anyone. And once they’re inside, it’s easy for them to settle in. Bed bugs like warmth, and they need blood to survive. Unfortunately, bed bugs don’t like hairy hosts, which makes humans their main target. A clean home won’t stop the bed bug life cycle from repeating. But clutter can make it more difficult to kill them. Knowing how to get rid of bed bugs takes a few steps. You’ll have to use the right bed bug treatment and limit their places to hide to really get the job done.
Myth 4 – Bed Bugs Are Only Active In The Dark
Another common misconception is that bed bugs won’t come out in bright areas. Although bed bugs prefer to come out at night, they have been known to move around and try to bite us even when the lights are on. They might prefer dark places, but bright lamps and sunshine won’t help you get rid of bed bugs.
Myth 5 – You Can Distinguish Bed Bug Bites From Other Bug Bites
Every person’s histamines react differently to various bugs that bite. Some lucky people have no reaction to bed bug bites at all.
Although we can usually determine if someone is getting bed bugs by knowing what questions to ask, there is no way to definitively determine what bit you simply by looking at the bites.
